The automotive world stands at the intersection of heritage and innovation with the launch of Mansory’s groundbreaking Phantom I-to-IV Conversion Kit – a meticulously engineered solution that reimagines the 1925 Rolls-Royce Phantom I through the design language of the ultra-exclusive 1950 Phantom IV. Limited to just 18 units globally, this £1.2 million package represents the pinnacle of coachbuilding artistry, blending computational engineering with handcrafted traditions to bridge three decades of automotive evolution.
Historical Design Synthesis
At its core lies a 2,200-hour metalworking process where master coachbuilders reshape the Phantom I’s original steel body using 1950s blueprints recovered from Rolls-Royce’s archives. The wheelbase extends by 318mm to match the Phantom IV’s regal 3,683mm profile, while the iconic radiator grille is recreated in brushed stainless steel with integrated LED backlighting – 23% slimmer than the original yet maintaining its characteristic vertical vanes. CFD-optimized aluminum fender flares reduce aerodynamic drag by 11% at 60mph, while retaining Phantom IV’s signature teardrop rear quarter panels.
Material Revolution
Beneath the classic silhouette lies Mansory’s proprietary “Heritage Composite” system – a 78-layer carbon fiber substructure replacing 43% of original body panels. This reduces curb weight by 287kg while increasing torsional rigidity by 31%. The innovation extends to functional details: vacuum-formed leather wraps structural components, while 3D-printed titanium replicates Phantom IV’s iconic “Flying Lady” hood ornament with integrated gyroscopic stabilization.
Performance Reborn
The kit accommodates Rolls-Royce’s modern 6.75L V12 powertrain through laser-aligned engine mounts, though purists may opt for the original straight-six engine upgraded with electronic fuel injection (63% torque increase). A re-engineered leaf spring suspension incorporates Öhlins adaptive dampers, lowering the center of gravity by 42mm while maintaining Phantom IV’s “magic carpet” ride quality.
Interior Time Machine
Inside, Connolly hides are hand-dyed using 1950s recipes, while the dashboard integrates Phantom IV’s signature engine-turned aluminum panels – now housing a discreet 12.3-inch touchscreen. The pièce de résistance: rear cabin woodwork milled from the same 300-year-old Burr Walnut stock used in the original Phantom IV prototypes.
Certified Legacy
Each conversion comes with FIVA-approved heritage documentation and a blockchain-based provenance tracker. Rigorous TÜV testing ensures compliance with modern safety standards, including embedded crumple zones and a retrofitted ESC system disguised as vintage switchgear.
For collectors, this kit represents more than restoration – it’s automotive alchemy, transforming the Phantom I into what Rolls-Royce might have created had the Phantom IV entered series production. Deliveries commence Q3 2024, with each client participating in a bespoke commissioning process at Mansory’s Sussex atelier, where digital scans of their Phantom I guide the 14-month transformation.
